Carmichael on loan to Force

NEWS: Edinburgh lock Lewis Carmichael has joined Australian Super Rugby outfit Western Force on a short-term loan as part of his personal player development plan.

Carmichael - a first year professional who also plays for Melrose in the Premiership - will be available for the Perth based-side until the end of the current Super Rugby campaign.

The agreement was brokered by Scottish Rugby's Director of Rugby, Scott Johnson, and Edinburgh Rugby's Managing Director, Jonny Petrie, and is designed to help players gain experience in a different training and cultural environment.

Carmichael, who progressed through the Scotland age-grade system, said: "I'm really excited to get out to Australia and it was an offer that I jumped to take.

"I watch a lot of Super Rugby, and it will be a huge opportunity for me to go and train in a new environment, hopefully get some game time and experience a different style of rugby. I feel I'll come back as a more rounded rugby player after spending some time in their camp.

"Getting game time most weeks at Edinburgh has really helped me as a rugby player and given me a taste of what it takes to compete at this level in the professional game."

Scott Johnson said: "This is a huge opportunity for Lewis, who will be able to learn and develop as a player in a different rugby culture and environment.

"Super Rugby is great standard of rugby, and for Lewis to have an involvement in that competitive environment will only prove as a positive to him as a player going forth. We are actively looking to give selected players new opportunities to help develop their game and broaden their rugby experience to ultimately benefit Edinburgh Rugby.

"We wish Lewis all the best for the rest of the Super Rugby season and look forward to him returning to the club."